Lead Test Operations Technician

Rocket Lab is an end‑to‑end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium‑lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope. Lead Test Operations Technician – A and B Shift A Shift: Monday–Thursday, 5:00am – 3:30pm B Shift: Monday–Thursday, 3:00pm – 1:30am Based out of Rocket Lab’s Stennis Test Center at the NASA Stennis Space Center in Mississippi, the Lead Test Operations Technician is responsible for leading the efforts of the test operations technician crew to build, operate and maintain various test assets on‑site required for the success of the Neutron program. This will be a highly influential position with daily responsibility for setting job assignments to meet workflow demands and to drive day‑by‑day and hour‑by‑hour progress. The Lead Technician will build, train, manage and retain a team of technicians responsible for building, maintaining and operating the test infrastructure required for the success of the Neutron program. In this role you must be an inspiring leader and set standards for the team but also be ready to work with your hands in the field. What You’ll Get To Do Lead a team of highly qualified test operations technicians to ensure clarity and accountability of responsibilities at our Stennis test site Coordinate daily and weekly site activities with test ops, GSE, and the larger electrical team, including the electrical supervisor Track output of the team against delivery objectives as well as manage capacity planning and schedule of the team Drive and encourage improvement projects and work instruction feedback that decrease touch‑time, improve quality, or reduce safety risk Drive basic preventive maintenance across the facility Accountable for the team training and conformance to health and safety policies and procedures, including use of proper PPE You’ll Bring These Qualifications High school diploma or GED 6+ years of experience as an operating technician in test facilities, industrial plants, or other technical environments Nice to Have Associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree in a technical discipline A&P License Experience preferred in fast‑paced production environment working in a similar type of test facility Ability to read, understand, and follow manufacturing instructions and drawings Knowledge of safety processes and experience with handling hazardous goods and materials Proven ability to align capacity to development and production forecasts Proven ability to manage resources to meet expected test rate increases Experience with applying 5S and other lean processes to streamline daily tasks Proficient with computers, the ability to use MS Office, shop floor management software (ERP/MES) and related programs This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas. What To Expect We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out‑think, out‑work, and out‑pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way. To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. #J-18808-Ljbffr